Evaluation of the Incidence and Predictor Factors for Red Blood Cell Transfusion in the Mechanically Ventilated Children

Abstract

Introduction:Transfusion of blood components, including red blood cells (RBC), platelets and plasma, is the fastest way to improve the haematological state of critically ill patients and can be a lifesaving intervention. Although transfusion is a common practice in paediatric intensive care units (PICUs), its adverse effects are not clearly defined. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the incidence and predictors of RBC transfusion in mechanically ventilated children.Methods:Data of patients admitted to PICUs from January 2014 to April 2019 were extracted. The mechanically ventilated patients were categorised into two groups, and the relationship between transfusion and prognostic factors was examined.Results:This study investigated 373 children with a mean age of 3.86±4.86 years. Among these children, 239 received RBC transfusion (64.1%). Inotropic drug usage, acute kidney injury, continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), mortality, length of mechanical ventilation, and duration of PICU stay were associated with RBC transfusion. Logistic regression analysis revealed that inotropic drug usage increased the RBC transfusion requirement by 5.168 fold, and CRRT increased it by 2.804 fold.Conclusion:Blood transfusion is an associated adversity in critically ill children. Therefore, patients who need transfusion should be followed up more carefully and closely.

Keywords

• pediatric intensive care unit
• red blood cell
• transfusion
• mechanical ventilation